### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mataiótēs**, represented by `{{G3153}}`, is a term for **vanity**. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, signifying inutility, transientness, and moral depravity. The term points to a state of emptiness, purposelessness, or a corrupt condition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3153}}` is used in several key contexts. It describes the futile mindset of Gentiles who walk in the **vanity** of their mind [[Ephesians 4:17]]. It is also used to characterize the state of creation itself, which was made subject to **vanity** not by its own will, but in hope [[Romans 8:20]]. Finally, the term is applied to the speech of those who use "great swelling words of **vanity**" to allure people through lust and wantonness [[2 Peter 2:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the context of **vanity**:
* `{{G5246}}` **hypéronkos** (great swelling): from ὑπέρ and ὄγκος; bulging over, i.e. (figuratively) insolent. This term is used to describe the arrogant nature of the "words of **vanity**" spoken by false teachers [[2 Peter 2:18]].
* `{{G766}}` **asélgeia** (lasciviousness, wantonness): from a compound of Α (as a negative particle) and a presumed (of uncertain derivation, but apparently meaning continent); licentiousness (sometimes including other vices). This is presented as a tool used alongside empty words to allure others [[2 Peter 2:18]].
* `{{G4106}}` **plánē** (deceit, to deceive, delusion, error): feminine of πλάνος (as abstractly); objectively, fraudulence; subjectively, a straying from orthodoxy or piety. The empty words of **vanity** are spoken by those who live in **error** [[2 Peter 2:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3153}}` is significant, highlighting states of being that are contrary to God's purpose.
* **A Mind Apart from God:** The term is used to characterize the mindset of those who do not walk in the ways of the Lord. This "**vanity** of their mind" represents a futile and purposeless way of thinking [[Ephesians 4:17]].
* **The State of a Fallen World:** `{{G3153}}` describes the condition of creation itself, which has been subjected to transientness and inutility. This subjection to **vanity** is presented as a temporary state that exists in hope [[Romans 8:20]].
* **A Tool of Depravity:** In a moral context, **vanity** is associated with boastful and empty words used to deceive. It is linked with licentiousness and is a characteristic of those who allure others through fleshly lusts [[2 Peter 2:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3153}}` defines a state of **vanity** that encompasses inutility, transientness, and moral depravity. Though appearing only three times, it is used with precision to describe the futile thinking of a mind separated from God [[Ephesians 4:17]], the current fallen state of creation [[Romans 8:20]], and the empty, boastful language of moral corruption [[2 Peter 2:18]]. It serves as a key theological term to illustrate the purposelessness and emptiness that exists apart from God's design and truth.
TRV